The Power of the Pomegranate!

The "Wonderful" variety of pomegranates originated in Florida and were first propagated in California in 1896. These pomegranates are large, deep purple-red fruit. The rind is medium thick and tough. The flesh is deep crimson in color, juicy and full of a delicious vinous flavor. The seeds are not very hard and are better for juicing than for eating out of hand. The pomegranate juice can be very sweet or sour, but most fruits are moderate in taste, with sour notes from the acidic tannins contained in the aril juice.

Pomegranates Today

In the United States pomegranates are grown for its fruits mainly in the drier parts of California and Arizona. In California commercial pomegranate cultivation is centered in the southern San Joaquin Valley. In the San Joaquin Valley there are generally two or three blooming and fruit-setting periods in spring. Wonderful Pomegranates are the leading commercial variety in California.

Possible Pomegranate Health Benefits

In many cultures the pomegranate symbolizes prosperity and fertility. Researchers report that they are rich in antioxidants that can keep bad LDL cholesterol from oxidizing (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, May 2000). In addition, pomegranate juice, like aspirin, can help keep blood platelets from clumping together to form unwanted clots.

Some researchers report that long-term consumption of pomegranate juice may help combat erectile dysfunction (Journal of Urology, July 2005). Investigators are also excited about the possibility that pomegranate compounds might prevent prostate cancer or slow its growth. Other research reports suggest that pomegranate juice might help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Quick Benefits

Pomegranates are very low in Saturated Fat, Cholesterol and Sodium. Its a good source of Dietary Fiber and Folate, and a very good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin K.